Is Yew Toxic to Dogs? Yes, Highly: Emergency Signs

Highly toxic

Yes, yew is highly toxic to dogs

Yew is a common hedge and landscaping shrub that contains taxine alkaloids, which stop the heart. Small amounts of needles can be fatal, and death can occur within hours.

If your dog ate or touched yew: go to an emergency vet now or call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Do not wait for symptoms.

Yew and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Highly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Highly toxic
Scientific name	Taxus spp.
Also called	Japanese yew, English yew, Pacific yew
Toxic compound	Taxine alkaloids
Toxic parts	All parts except the red flesh around the seed; seeds and needles are very toxic
Signs usually start	Can be within 30 minutes to a few hours
Plant type	Garden plant

Symptoms of yew poisoning in dogs

Sudden death (sometimes the first sign)
Trembling and wobbliness
Difficulty breathing
Vomiting
Very slow or irregular heartbeat
Seizures

Why yew is toxic to dogs

Taxines block calcium and sodium channels in heart muscle, slowing and disrupting the heartbeat. Sudden death can be the first sign.

What to do if your dog ate yew

Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your dog seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
Watch for sudden death, trembling and wobbliness, difficulty breathing. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.

Treatment and outlook

Go to an emergency vet immediately. Treatment includes decontamination, heart monitoring, and medicines and fluids to support the heart. There is no specific antidote.

How to keep your dog away from yew

Place yew on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
In the garden, fence off beds, supervise dogs that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.

Pet-safe alternatives to yew

If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

Yew and dogs: FAQ

Is yew poisonous to dogs?

Yew is highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal. If your dog ate any part of this plant, treat it as an emergency.

What part of yew is toxic to dogs?

All parts except the red flesh around the seed; seeds and needles are very toxic.

Can dogs die from eating yew?

Yes. Yew can be fatal to dogs, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.

How long after eating yew will my dog show symptoms?

Can be within 30 minutes to a few hours.

Is yew toxic to cats too?

Yes, yew is highly toxic to cats.

Other plants toxic to dogs

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Is Yew Toxic to Dogs?